Family fun this half term at Crewe Heritage Centre

Crewe Heritage Centre is inviting families from across Cheshire and beyond to enjoy a packed programme of hands on activities, creative workshops and family friendly experiences this May half term.

Running to Sunday 31 May 2026, the Heritage Centre will offer a mix of interactive events, special activities and open days designed to inspire visitors of all ages while exploring Crewe’s rich railway heritage.

Kick Off the Half Term with Plant & Grow Workshops (Saturday 23 & Monday 25 May)

Families can start their half term with creative, nature based fun at the Plant & Grow Workshops on Saturday 23 May and Monday 25 May.

Visitors will be able to:

• Plant their own sunflower to take home
• Plant a sunflower for Crewe Heritage Centre
• Contribute to the Centre’s community garden

These sessions run alongside a full day of the Centre’s usual attractions, giving families the chance to explore the site while getting creative and engaging with nature.

Free Family Day with Nature Activities for All (Wednesday 27 May)

A highlight of the week comes on Wednesday 27 May, when the Centre opens its doors for a FREE admission day.

Visitors can enjoy:

• A wide range of drop in nature based activities for all ages
• Creative sessions encouraging exploration of the natural world with Creative Crewe
• A Dig for Victory workshop with artist, Francesca Chinnery learning about how food was grown during World War II
• Full access to the Heritage Centre’s exhibitions, trains and displays

As with every visit, guests can climb aboard the miniature railway, explore iconic locomotives and discover Crewe’s wartime and railway stories.

The half term programme concludes with a weekend of family nature activities, offering creative, hands-on experiences designed to inspire curiosity and exploration.

Visitors can begin by designing their own wooden magnifying glass, before heading out into the Heritage Centre’s newly installed gardens to discover local wildlife and plant life.

Families are encouraged to explore the outdoor space, spotting birds, bugs, herbs and flowers while learning more about the natural environment.

Back indoors, visitors can take part in creative sessions, including colouring their own life cycle wheel, whilst learning about the development of plants and animals in a fun and accessible way.

Alongside these activities, visitors will have access to the full range of Heritage Centre attractions. These include rides on the miniature railway, detailed model railway displays, and exhibitions such as Crewe at War.

Visitors can also get up close to historic locomotives, including the 8000th engine built at Crewe Works, and enjoy views of the West Coast Main Line from the elevated viewing platform.

With additional facilities including a café, shop and family activity areas, the weekend offers a well-rounded day out combining nature, creativity and heritage.

Crewe Heritage Centre is open during their season on weekends, bank holidays and selected school holiday dates, offering a mix of history, hands-on learning and fun for all ages.

Manager Edmea Gori said: “We’re looking forward to welcoming families this half term. Whether you’re planting sunflowers, enjoying creative activities or discovering Crewe’s rich railway heritage, there’s something fun here for everyone to get involved in.”

For more information visit www.crewehc.co.uk